Mayor De Blasio says he'd get rid of 421-a if lawmakers can't modify to include more affordable housing

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio speaks at the Fire Department of New York's (annual Medal Day, where firefighters receive awards for acts of courage, at City Hall on June 3, 2015 in New York City. Photo Credit: Getty Images / Andrew Burton

De Blasio and Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo earlier this month locked horns over 421-a, begun in the 1970s to provide incentives for development in New York City. The governor said the mayor's tax breaks last too long -- up to 35 years -- and condemned de Blasio's proposal that construction unions build at less than "prevailing wage." The Democrats have since tempered their rhetoric, saying they're working toward a common affordable housing goal.

De Blasio continued Sunday to push Albany for a so-called mansion tax, with extra charges on properties selling at more than $1.75 million, and stronger rent-control laws.

"If they do not act, they will be damning this city to become unaffordable for more and more people," he said of the Republican-run State Senate.

Get the Newsday Now newsletter!

The Real Estate Board of New York, which backs de Blasio's proposed changes to 421-a, believes the state still has time to "revise and resolve" the program, organization spokesman Jamie McShane said.

Also Sunday, de Blasio announced the creation of a clergy advisory council. His office said the group, which will consist of members of varying faiths, will hold community meetings on city public safety, housing and education policy.

The Rev. Mike Walrond of the First Corinthian Baptist Church in Harlem will chair the council. He pledged his congregation's help to de Blasio in "trying to balance the scales in this city."